Join President Dingwall as he chats with student-athlete, Nolan Neville, about life on the track and field team, working at the Welcome Centre and what makes CBU feel like family.
Cape Breton Accents
Welcome to Cape Breton Accents, the official podcast of Cape Breton University!
Hosted by President and Vice-Chancellor, David Dingwall, this podcast dives into the incredible stories of the people who make up the CBU community. From passionate students and accomplished alumni to world-class faculty and local changemakers, each episode offers inspiring conversations about education, culture, leadership and the Cape Breton spirit.
Whether you’re a future student, a proud alum or just curious about life at CBU, Cape Breton Accents is your front-row seat to hear how this small but mighty university is making a big impact in Nova Scotia and beyond
New episodes are released regularly. Subscribe, listen and join the conversation!
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About The Host
The Honourable David C. Dingwall is the 7th President and Vice-Chancellor of Cape Breton University, where his visionary leadership has transformed the campus and elevated its reputation globally.
Since his installation in 2018, President Dingwall has overseen remarkable achievements, including the creation of new strategic plans, a revitalized campus and unprecedented enrolment growth. Major milestones include the development of a Centre for Discovery and Innovation, a new School of Nursing, the establishment of the Home of Women’s hockey in Canada and Cape Breton’s first medical campus.
In 2024, President Dingwall was awarded the prestigious King Charles Medal for his outstanding contributions to education and public service, recognizing his lifelong dedication to advancing learning and fostering community development.
With degrees in commerce and law from Dalhousie University and advanced studies in corporate governance from Harvard, President Dingwall is a recognized leader in both public and private sectors. As a former Canadian Cabinet Minister and the author of Negotiating So Everyone Wins, he brings decades of expertise to every conversation.
A proud Cape Bretoner, mentor and family man, President Dingwall is passionate about creating opportunities for CBU students to thrive locally and globally.
Connect with President Dingwall on LinkedIn.
Cape Breton Accents Episode List
Join President Dingwall as he speaks with international student, Rabiat Yusuf, about her journey from Nigeria, working on campus and the path to permanent residency.
Join President Dingwall as he speaks with local student Leila Ludyka, about her role with the Capers Women’s Hockey Team, coaching with the Blizzards Hockey Association and her exciting research with Dr. Bettina Callary.
Join President Dingwall as he speaks with award-winning musician, Morgan Toney, about his passion for music, learning his language through song and what makes CBU such a welcoming place to study.
Join President Dingwall as he speaks with CBU’s Communications and Social Media Specialist, Shashwat Trivedi, about his journey from international student to caper, permanent residency and the power of storytelling.
Join President Dingwall as he chats with Ben Smith, a two-time CBU Alumnus and last year’s valedictorian. Raised in Curaçao and now finishing his second degree at CBU, Ben shares how music, community and mentorship have shaped his experience both inside and outside the classroom.
In this episode of Cape Breton Accents, President Dingwall sits down with William Bowers as he shares his powerful journey from South Africa to Canada. Driven by his early experiences growing up during apartheid, William was determined to pursue a career focused on community upliftment, a goal that led him to Cape Breton University’s MBA in Community Economic Development program.
Join President Dingwall as he sits down with CBU professor, Dr. Lynn LeVatte, to explore how educators are being prepared for the classrooms of today and tomorrow.
Dr. LeVatte shares insights on CBU’s Bachelor and Master of Education programs, emphasizing the importance of preparing educators through both academic and hands-on learning. They also delve into the evolving role of technology in the classroom, discussing how digital tools can both challenge and enhance the way educators teach, and students learn.
Join President Dingwall as he sits down with Bachelor of Social Work Graduate, Alex Orychock for a heartfelt conversation about resilience, purpose and the power of staying close to home.
As a member of the program’s inaugural cohort, he reflects on the hands-on learning, supportive faculty and powerful practicum experiences that helped shape his professional identity.